Sacred sage of the Mazateca Indians of Mexico used to induce divinatory visions. To help find lost items, or to solve problems of a material or spiritual nature, the Mazateca Indians would chew the fresh leaves. The leaves are very bitter when chewed but are slightly more palatable taken as a cold infusion of fresh crushed leaves, or smoked. Psychotropic effects similar to mescaline are attributed to compounds called salvinorins. Prefers humid, shaded conditions and humus-rich, moist soil. Rangy plant, reaching 2m/7ft. unless pruned.